Embodiment: An Approach to Sexuality and Christian Theology

by James B. Nelson

Few would doubt that this is a time of transition in our understanding of human sexuality. The confusion about sexual morals and mores is the more obvious evidence of this. But there is something else. For too long the bulk of Christian reflection about sexuality has asked an essentially one-directional what does Christian faith have to say about our lives as sexual beings?
- from the Preface

Genres: Theology, Nonfiction, Sexuality, Christianity, Religion, Philosophy, Psychology

303 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1978

Reviews

[Zachary Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's amazing to me that this was published in 1978, given how up-to-date its topical arrangements and arguments are. Truly ahead of its time. The early chapters on dualism and sexual alienation are often superb, and something that evangelicals would do well to wrestle with more seriously than we typically do. Lots of departures from traditional Christian ethics here, but the core message of God's acceptance of our embodied sexuality is powerful––and profoundly Christian, I would argue. (And this remains true even though I don't accept many of the implications and ethical conclusions.)

[Lauren Green · Rating 2 out of 5]

Embodiment provided a liberal view of theology of the body and sexuality.

[Ellis · Rating 2 out of 5]

Read this for my sexual ethics class. Nelson is WAY out of left field, but has some very interesting things to add to debates about the morality of sex, masturbation, and homosexuality and how the church, specifically Protestant (he has this nasty habit of villifying Catholics), reacts and, in his opinion, ought to react.

[Jenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

so awesome. like rob bell's "sex god" but chock full of academics. interesting presentation of feminism...coupled it with some good ole fashion thoughts into relational autonomy. the intersection between sexuality and spirituality. well done, dr. nelson.

[Scott Hopkins]

Landmark book for anyone on an honest and genuine journey into spiritual authenticity.... a word on SEX that puts the maladjusted Right Wing in their place for good. I DARE YOU TO READ THIS BOOK ! LOL LOL PAX, Hop

[Dave · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a re-read. This book was given to me years ago by the retiring pastor of the church I grew up in. As he gave it to me he said I was “probably the only person in the congregation who would or could understand it and appreciate it!” Given the members of that particular Baptist church, he spoke truth.

Written in 1978 Mr. Nelson’s book is somewhat shocking, and it is a refreshing breath of clean air when speaking of, and dealing with, sex, sexuality and gender. He touches on many items from gender equality and racism to healthier and happier sex lives for the disabled and critically ill!

In his epilogue Nelson states, “ Christianity perceived, the fundamental answer to sin is the gracious love of God—the Cosmic Lover who promises to make better lovers of us all, in the fullest, richest, most responsible sense of that good word.”

I wish more Christians would read this book!